<div>Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,
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<div><br />
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<div>We are reaching out to you with heavy hearts and hope, seeking support for our beloved Esteban Ordonez, a renowned spirits expert, bartender, and hospitality professional, who was tragically kidnapped while on a trip to Ecuador for dental work. Esteban is not just an expert in his craft, but also a loving father, husband, and friend. His family is devastated. He was returned on November 28th with multiple injuries.
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<div><strong>The Situation:</strong>
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<div>Esteban traveled to Guayaquil, Ecuador on Sunday November 24th to visit his family for thanksgiving as well as undergo the third medical procedure for dental work he was completing. This was a routine trip that many in our community make in search of reliable healthcare and to visit loved ones. Unfortunately, Ecuador, like many countries in the region, has been experiencing a rise in violence, including kidnappings. Many of these incidents are targeted at tourists and people from abroad, often for ransom.
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<div>Esteban’s family and friends have done everything they can to bring him home. He was recovered but has sustained multiple serious injuries. During the kidnapping he was subjected to violent torture which resulted in broken bones, bullet wounds, and drugging. The situation is dire and he is currently in a coma. In a time where safety should never be a concern while traveling abroad, Esteban’s kidnapping highlights the risks that are unfortunately becoming more common, even for those who are simply seeking medical care and time with their loved ones.
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<div><strong>Why We Need Your Help:</strong>
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<div>Esteban is a well-respected figure in the bartending, spirits and hospitality industry, someone whose expertise has brought joy to countless people. He is also a proud father and husband, and his family is desperately trying to raise funds for the necessary resources to ensure his recovery. 
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<div>What Funds Will Be Used For:
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<ul>
<li>The financial burden of providing for Esteban's immediate  medical care: The necessities are still overwhelming. Esteban was subjected to torture, drugging, broken bones, and gunshot wounds and much of the treatment is not covered by insurance policies here. Your generous donations will directly help cover these critical and expensive costs.
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</ul>
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<ul>
<li>Travel and logistics for Esteban's wife and children: Esteban's wife must be there to direct medical staff and family members in the area to assist with Esteban's medical care. His two children have also traveled to see him, but must return for school. 
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</ul>
<div><br />
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<ul>
<li>Any legal fees associated with Esteban's care and return to the US: Currently the medical care has not been the best and the family has had to hire legal counsel to expedite proper care.
</li>
</ul>
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<div><strong>A Shared Cause for Safety and Understanding</strong>:
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<div>This is not just a tragedy for one person or one family—it is a wake-up call for many of us, especially those who travel to or have family in countries with rising instability. Whether you are an immigrant hoping for safe passage back home or someone who believes in the importance of safe borders and international cooperation, Esteban’s story is one that unites us all in our shared desire for peace, security, and safe travel, especially those in the hospitality industry.
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<div>Esteban’s kidnapping is not just a personal tragedy—it highlights a troubling trend that affects the hospitality community at large. People in the hospitality and beverage industries frequently travel across borders to expand their careers, build relationships, and share their knowledge with others. Whether it’s for industry events, conferences, or consulting work, professionals like Esteban are often on the move globally. Unfortunately, this growing insecurity in many countries—Ecuador being one of them which has seen a kidnapping increase averaging 70 during the last few years—has made it more dangerous for workers in the international hospitality sector. Esteban’s story underscores the need for greater attention to safety measures for global travelers in this industry.
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<div>As the global Ambassador for Serrallés USA, and an independent beverage consultant, Esteban’s career has taken him to cities and countries around the world, where he has shared his passion for mixology and the spirits industry. He is not just a colleague, but a mentor and friend to many. His work has built connections across international borders, and his kidnapping serves as a stark reminder of the risks that come with global travel today.
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<div><strong>How You Can Help:</strong>
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<div>Please consider donating to this campaign, and at the very least sharing it with your friends and family. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference in helping Esteban recover and return to his loved ones. We also ask for your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this incredibly difficult time.
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<div>Esteban’s family and friends are eternally grateful for your kindness, support, and compassion. Together, we can help bring Esteban home safe and sound.
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<div>Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your kindness and generosity will help search and bring Esteban home.
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<div>By supporting Esteban, we show that we stand together as a community that values safety, family, and the dignity of all people, regardless of where they come from or where they travel. Your help today can make all the difference in ensuring no one else has to face this nightmare.
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<div>Donate Now to Help Bring Esteban Home!
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<div>Your contribution will make a real difference in Esteban’s life, and in the lives of many other travelers who rely on safe journeys to pursue their passions and careers. Let’s stand together to ensure that safety and security are a priority for everyone, no matter where they go.
</div>

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In Memory of Esteban Ordonez - Help Aid His Family

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In Memory of Esteban Ordonez - Help Aid His Family

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